Q & A: Fire Capt. Fred Salmo

Fred Salmo brings more than 20 years of experience as a firefighter to the city of West Hollywood, where he is captain of the "A shift" at Fire Station #7, one of two stations serving West Hollywood.

He's proud to say that his station's emergency response time clocks in at less than eight minutes. 

Salmo says he loves the area and the urban atmosphere. "This area has a more 'high-rise' and 'midcity' feel to it," than many other parts of L.A., he said.

Salmo has worked as a firefighter engineer, paramedic, in the fire prevention bureau and in pyrotechnics. 

Fire Station #7 is part of the Los Angeles County Fire Department and serves as the headquarters for Battalion 1. 

Patch met with Salmo to talk about gearing up for National Night Out on Aug 3.

West Hollywood Patch: What is National Night Out all about? 

Fred Salmo: We go around to designated areas of the city and meet the residents. We mingle, and it's like a big block party, sort of like a meet-and-greet. But we also do that on a regular basis, like two or three times a month.

Patch: What are some of the things that local firefighters do to interact with the community?

Salmo: We do safety inspections and have talks about earthquake and fire safety. We also do resident meetings upon request.

Patch: What's your advice for residents to help you respond to emergencies?

Salmo: Don't park in the red zones and make sure your address is visible along the curb. Visibility would be the most important thing.

Patch: What tip do you have for residents about summer safety?

Salmo: Make sure you dress appropriately with clothes that can breathe, like cotton.  

Using an umbrella is also effective. Make sure to stay hydrated and try to do your exercising in the early morning or late in the evening.

For seniors, make sure someone is checking in on you occasionally. Also, do your shopping early in the morning or late in the evening.

Patch: What is the busiest time of the year for fire station #7?

Salmo: The Halloween Carnaval….the pride parade comes in at second, but Halloween is the most incredible thing I've seen take place in such a small area.